When the world’s leading travel authority speaks, travelers listen. In their latest * A First-Time Guide to Malawi, Lonely Planet has shined a global spotlight on the creative heartbeat of our community.*
Malawi is rightly famous for the shimmering waters of the Lake and the elephants of Liwonde. But for travelers seeking a deeper connection to the "Warm Heart of Africa," Lonely Planet has identified a unique destination that defies expectations: Dzaleka.
In their feature on the best times to visit Malawi, Lonely Planet explicitly highlights the "outstanding talents of the residents of Dzaleka Refugee Camp."
Here is why Dzaleka has captured the attention of the global travel community—and why it should be on your Malawi itinerary.
Beyond the Headlines: A Hub of Creativity
Refugee camps are often portrayed solely as places of need. But as Lonely Planet recognized, Dzaleka is a place of talent.
Walking through our streets, you aren't just visiting a camp; you are entering a vibrant Pan-African hub. Home to communities from the DRC, Rwanda, Burundi, Somalia, and Ethiopia, Dzaleka has evolved into a melting pot of culture, art, and entrepreneurship.
Visitors are often surprised to find:
- Professional Art Studios: Painters and sculptors creating world-class pieces.
- Music & Dance: The rhythms of rumba, afro-pop, and traditional dance echoing from community centers.
- Culinary Diversity: The best place in Malawi to taste authentic Congolese pondu, Ethiopian coffee, or Burundian chapati.
You Don’t Have to Wait for the Festival
While Lonely Planet mentions the famous Tumaini Festival (held annually in November), the magic of Dzaleka happens 365 days a year.
You don't need to wait for the festival crowds to experience the energy here. In fact, visiting during the rest of the year offers a more intimate, personal experience. You can sit down with artists in their studios, enjoy a quiet lunch at a local bistro, and have real conversations with the people who call this place home.
How to Visit Dzaleka (The Right Way)
For many travelers, the question isn't if they should visit, but how.
Visiting a refugee camp requires sensitivity, respect, and local knowledge. You cannot simply wander in as a tourist; you need a connection. This is why we created Visit Dzaleka.
Visit Dzaleka is the official gateway to experiencing our community safely and ethically.
- Verified Local Guides: We connect you with residents who know every corner of the camp. They don't just show you around; they share their personal stories and introduce you to their community.
- Safety & Logistics: Navigating the busy markets and finding the hidden gems can be overwhelming for a first-time visitor. Our guides ensure your trip is smooth, safe, and welcoming.
- Ethical Impact: 100% of your booking supports the guides and the local ecosystem. This is tourism that empowers.
Plan Your Day Trip
Dzaleka is located just 45 minutes from Lilongwe, making it the perfect day trip for travelers or expats living in the capital.
- Morning: Visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre.
- Afternoon: Take a short drive to Dzaleka for a cultural walking tour and a late lunch.
- Evening: Return to Lilongwe with a new perspective on the region.
Don't just read about the "outstanding talents" of Dzaleka in a guidebook. Come and meet them.
*Read the full Lonely Planet article here: A first-time guide to Malawi*
